Resource Mobilization Officer – Proposal Development Zambia Red Cross Society

TITLE: Resource Mobilisation Officer – Proposal Development
Reports to: Resource Mobilisation Manager
LOCATION: Lusaka , Zambia
Department: Resource Mobilisation
CONTRACT LENGTH: 24 months
Deadline: 22nd March, 2024

ROLE PURPOSE:

The primary function of this role is to coordinate the process for producing high-quality proposals and concept notes by Zambia Red Cross Society strategy. Through the development of high-quality proposals, this role will also focus on building the capacity of programmes and partner staff in proposal development. The Resource Mobilisation Officer – Proposal Development will support the Resource Mobilization Manager and other programme staff in the development of concepts and proposals in accordance with the strategic direction of ZRCS and donor requirements. The post holder will be responsible for extensive partner, member and donor liaison during proposal development process. He /She will support the Resource Mobilisation Department in its fundraising activities and initiatives. He/ She will report to the Resource Mobilisation Manager, and work in collaboration with programme staff, technical advisors, and finance teams as well as donors.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Regularly track donor, potential donor, and umbrella websites for Requests for Applications and proposal submission opportunities for ZRCS core competency areas.
• Support the Resource Mobilization Manager in identifying donors with potential funding areas that align to ZRCS strategic priorities and analyse information necessary for innovative and responsive proposals the organization can decide to pursue.
• Serve as primary proposal writer, drafting, editing, and ensuring final production of competitive proposal for submission to donor; use writing skills to transform technical content and conceptual design into polished final proposals that are responsive to donor guidelines, including log frames and proposal budgets.
• Lead the proposal development workshop for prospective proposals and communicate proposal requirements and timelines for inputs and review of proposals with partners and ZRCS staff.
• Manage administrative procedures, practices and project management tools regarding donor funds/grants.
• Facilitate meetings, phone calls and written correspondence with donors and stakeholders.
• Proactively follow up with the donors following proposal submission to monitor progress, answer questions and amend submissions, as necessary.
• With support from the Proposal development team, review secondary literature on relevant subjects relating to proposed projects and programs. Based on data analysis, identify data, information and analysis gaps. This should include reviewing and compiling relevant research, evidence from prior similar interventions, best practices and lessons learned.
• Utilise reports on ZRCS activities, community interventions and outcomes to demonstrate impact of our projects to existing and potential donors.
• Support the Resource Mobilisation Department with Fundraising activities and initiatives.
• Support the Resource Mobilisation Manager to track funding opportunities to ensure timely engagement with donors regarding potential funding.
• Any other duties as assigned by the Resource Mobilisation Manager.

Minimum qualifications, working experience and competencies:

Education qualifications
1. Minimum Bachelors degree in Economics, Business Development, Development Studies or any relevant social science or management field from a recognized and reputable university.
Working experience
1. Minimum 3 years’ relevant work experience in a similar position with humanitarian organizations, Non-governmental Organisation or similar experience.

2. Knowledge of and experience/relationships with diverse donors/funders

3. Robust experience in proposal and budget development; program implementation, monitoring, evaluation & reporting.

4. Familiarity with the international development community and donor solicitation processes (US Government agencies, European Government agencies, multilateral agencies)

5. Experience in communications would be an asset

6. Experience tracking donor trends and opportunities.

Core competencies
1. Knowledge of institutional donors

2. Coordination

3. Experience in grant management

4. Risk assessment

5. Technical writing skills

6. Training & capacity building

7. Innovation and creatively

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1) Proficient computer skills (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, access, etc.)

2) Ability to work independently and as a member of a team

3) Excellent communication (written and verbal), presentation, and listening skills for multiple and diverse audiences.

4) Ability to learn, understand, and maintain current best practices in fundraising.

5) Respect for cross-cultural perspectives and experiences

6) Knowledge about the Red Cross Movement will be an added advantage.